Multiple Choice
What does it mean that the cell membrane is selectively permeable?
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6. The Membrane
Biological Membranes
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What features of a biological membrane are major contributors to its selective permeability?
A
The uniform distribution of cholesterol throughout the membrane
B
The presence of phospholipid bilayers with hydrophobic cores
C
The presence of DNA within the membrane structure
D
The presence of ribosomes on the membrane surface
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that biological membranes are primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which is crucial for their function.
Recognize that the phospholipid bilayer has a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and a hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail, creating a hydrophobic core.
The hydrophobic core of the phospholipid bilayer acts as a barrier to most water-soluble substances, contributing to selective permeability.
Identify that proteins embedded in the membrane can facilitate the transport of specific molecules, further contributing to selective permeability.
Note that cholesterol, while present in the membrane, primarily affects fluidity and stability rather than selective permeability, and DNA and ribosomes are not components of the membrane structure.
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